AFSOC commander talks special operations priorities with Citizen Air Commandos

Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, shares a laugh with members of the 919th Special Operations Wing during a commanders call April 5, 2019 in Niceville, Fla. Webb and Chief Master Sgt. Greg Smith, command chief for AFSOC, explained how the Citizen Air Commandos from Duke Field, Fla., have supported the command's priorities by remaining ready, relevant and resilient. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jon McCallum)

NICEVILLE, Fla. -- Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, joined the 919th Special Operations Wing for an Airmen’s Call April 5, 2019, at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville.

Webb’s briefing highlighted his top priorities for Air Force special operations forces -- readiness, relevance, and resiliency. He praised the 919th SOW’s efforts and showcased how the wing accomplishes each of these priorities.

“I’m extremely proud of how the 919th continues to lead the way,” said Webb. “Your efforts in this wing are to be commended, not only for being leaders in the Reserve, but also within the AFSOC community.”

Webb recognized the important role the 919th SOW plays in supporting the global special operations mission set as well, citing the wing’s ability to provide America’s Citizen Air Commandos any time, any place.

“In special operations, we are charged with no-fail missions,” said Webb. “They’re often ones that are critical, where you need to respond in a hurry. The 919th has been doing that for ages.”

Chief Master Sgt. Greg Smith, command chief for Air Force Special Operations Command, joined Webb at the event, echoing his sentiments about the importance of the 919th SOW partnership with AFSOC.

“Everything that happens to complete the mission is essential and it does not happen without the people in this room,” said Smith. “You are amazing Citizen Airmen solving some of our nation’s hardest problems.”

For the quiet professionals of the 919th SOW, the words of AFSOC’s highest leadership reinforced what they live and breathe as a part-time force providing a full-time capability. The message both leaders delivered to members of the wing was unequivocal—being a Citizen Air Commando today is certainly a no-fail job with global impact and importance.